Abstract
ObjectivesTo assess the potential of laughter and humour interventions to increase well-being in a general population of adults aged 60 plus; and to develop a classification to compare approaches and potential benefits of different intervention types. DesignA systematic search of Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, PsychInfo, AMED, and PsychArticles used inclusive terms relating to laughter and humour interventions. A realist synthesis approach enabled heterogeneous interventions to be compared pragmatically. SettingFive laughter interventions, and one humour intervention, using one or more outcome related to well-being, were considered for inclusion after screening 178 primary research papers. The five laughter interventions, representing a sample of 369 participants, were retained. Main outcome measuresWell-being related outcome measures reported in each intervention informed efficacy; Joanna Briggs Institute tools appraised design; and a realist approach enabled heterogeneous interventions to be measured on their overall potential to provide an evidence base. ResultsWell-being related measures demonstrated at least one significant positive effect in all interventions. Confounding factors inherent in the intervention types were observed. Individual participant laughter was not reported. ConclusionsLaughter and humour interventions appear to enhance well-being. There is insufficient evidence for the potential of laughter itself to increase well-being as interventions contained a range of confounding factors and did not measure participant laughter. Interventions that isolate, track, and measure the parameters of individual laughter are recommended to build evidence for these potentially attractive and low-risk interventions. The classification proposed may guide the development of both evidence-oriented and population-appropriate intervention designs.
Highlights
The high prevalence of chronic disease, multi-morbidity, and psychosocial issues in older people necessitates action, including prioritising well-being according to the World Health Organisation (WHO)[1]
Main outcome measures: Well-being related outcome measures reported in each intervention informed efficacy; Joanna Briggs Institute tools appraised design; and a realist approach enabled heterogeneous interventions to be measured on their overall potential to provide an evidence base
There is insufficient evidence for the potential of laughter itself to increase well-being as interventions contained a range of confounding factors and did not measure participant laughter
Summary
The high prevalence of chronic disease, multi-morbidity, and psychosocial issues in older people necessitates action, including prioritising well-being according to the World Health Organisation (WHO)[1]. Well-being, defined by the WHO (Five) Well-being Index[2] to include feeling cheerful, active, relaxed, rested, and interested in life, is thought to buffer physical and mental disease[3], and benefit health maintenance in older adults[4]. Laughter is a universal sign of joy[5]. It is contagious and likely evolved prior to language to communicate and elicit mirth[6]. A systematic review of interventions that elicit laughter in older adults would enable more insight into the effectiveness of using laughter to increase well-being. The International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews listed three ongoing relevant reviews: 1) humour and laughter therapy for people with dementia9; 2) the use of humour in palliative care10; 3) the effects of laughter yoga on mental health[11]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
